Written by: Rtr. V. H. Devthilini

Health A Plenty 4.0 marked another successful milestone in the journey of empowering individuals with essential health knowledge. Organized by the International Service Avenue of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, this year’s initiative was conducted in two impactful phases — each focusing on a different yet equally important aspect of health. With the goal of creating awareness on both mental well-being and physical health emergencies, Health A Plenty 4.0 brought together international expertise, practical knowledge, and active community engagement.

Health A Plenty 4.0 has always been more than a project. It has been a continued effort to address health concerns that are often overlooked or misunderstood. The fourth edition was specially designed to be both educational and action-oriented, while also creating a space for open discussion and practical learning. The campaign consisted of two phases. Phase One focused on mental health awareness through an international webinar titled Inside Out, and Phase Two addressed first aid awareness through an on-ground workshop named Helping Hands.

Phase 1 – Inside Out: International Webinar on Mental Health Awareness

The first phase, Inside Out, was an international webinar conducted with the aim of educating and opening conversations around mental health. In a society where mental health is still surrounded by stigma, this session served as a platform to promote awareness, understanding, and support.

The session featured two highly respected resource persons in the field of psychology:
Ms. Rasini Bandara, Co-chairperson of Healing Minds Matter, a psychologist, mental healthcare professional, and international well-being consultant, was invited as the Voice of the Day. Her contributions brought deep insights into how mental health affects our daily lives and the importance of creating safe spaces for expression and healing.

Ms. Hamna A. A. Wakil, a counseling psychologist, trainer, POSH enabler, and needs analysis expert, joined the session as the Keynote Speaker. She offered practical guidance on maintaining emotional balance, coping with stress, and building resilience in today’s fast-paced world.

The session allowed participants to reflect, ask questions, and engage with professionals, making it an interactive and thoughtful experience. Participants from diverse backgrounds joined in, which also emphasized the global importance of mental health discussions.

At the end of the session, every participant received an official Certificate of Participation, recognizing their involvement in an event that prioritized mental wellness and education.

Phase 2 – Helping Hands: First Aid Awareness and Practical Training Workshop

The second phase, Helping Hands, turned the focus toward physical health and emergency readiness. This phase was held as an in-person event that aimed to provide basic first aid knowledge and promote immediate response techniques in emergencies. This session was successfully conducted in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, whose professional guidance and training support brought depth and credibility to the workshop.

Participants received first-hand exposure to the essential practices involved in responding to injuries, accidents, and health emergencies. The training was carried out in a clear and structured manner, ensuring that all attendees understood the responsibility and importance of first aid knowledge. Participants were trained on several essential first aid responses that are crucial in emergency situations. The session covered how to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), manage wounds and control bleeding, assist someone who is choking, and handle fractures and sprains safely. Additionally, they were taught how to respond effectively to fainting or unconsciousness. A key takeaway from the session was the importance of staying calm and composed during emergencies, which plays a critical role in delivering timely and effective help. These skills were taught through live demonstrations and hands-on activities, making the experience both educational and empowering for everyone involved.

This practical phase not only encouraged learning but also empowered participants to be confident responders in real-life situations. Like in the previous phase, every attendee was awarded a Certificate of Participation for completing the workshop.

Health A Plenty 4.0 was a well-rounded health initiative that bridged the gap between awareness and action. It created a meaningful space for discussing mental health openly and offered practical tools to face physical emergencies with confidence. The project also strongly aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It directly contributed to SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being by promoting both mental health awareness and physical health preparedness. Through its structured, informative sessions and hands-on training, it supported SDG 4 – Quality Education, ensuring that participants gained practical, life-saving knowledge. By making health education accessible and inclusive, the initiative worked toward SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities. Furthermore, the collaboration with international speakers and the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society demonstrated the power of SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting how effective cooperation can amplify the reach and impact of community service.

The success of the project is a reflection of the dedication of the International Service Avenue of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, who continue to lead with compassion and commitment. Both phases were marked by active participation, expert knowledge sharing, and a strong sense of social responsibility.

As this edition concludes, the message remains clear: Taking care of both mind and body is not optional, it is essential. And with the right knowledge and support, everyone can take that step toward a healthier and safer life.

Graphic Designer: Rtr. Lithasha Abayarathna